A post with PROBLEMS in the header is EXACTLY what I want to see before my checkbook comes out. I dont spend big $$$$ on blind faith. I want to know exactly WTF beforehand. Thats what tirekicking is all about. Its not about asking dumb questions its all about making an informed choice. I'm pleased to be able to hear the experiences of a real customer living 1000s miles away from the vendor. It's Steve's frustrations and Steves gaddamn money and if he wants to scream in pain in public, guess what? he $%^&#@% PAID for that right. Over the last months all I heard regarding AP block preperation was "well, its going to be all the things you expect to have to do with a stock block" OK, so personally I decided on a stock block since Im not going over 750hp on the current project.
I dont see StevesC's machining adventures as negatives on the APIndian block, rather an indication of what the _REAL_ total cost involved is for an end user who chooses this block option. I am a rank beginner at the high end of horsepower so will sit on my checkbook until the dust settles on the playing field. Those who build a high end motor every year or two will have a more relaxed attitude about unexpected machining costs.
I called the APIndian block an option because it appears there will soon be another option. In a narrow niche market that can only mean a higher level of product refinement from the vendors and greater value for the consumer.
We just had 6 months of "no problem", "its all been addressed", etc. No doubt true, to the best extent possible with prototype examples. Now we are hearing the same "nearly golden" with Tiger heads. I think its reasonable to expect there will be minor issues come up in the same manner with those heads. That shouldnt come as any surprise and feedback to AP will help them refine the product. There has to be issues that wont be known until a product is in the hands of many end users in many combinations. Thats OK because AP will respond appropriately and soon there will be a polished product.
Hats off the early adopters who have the courage to saddle up on the bleeding edge.
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 My Daddy bought me a car but all I got was this old Pontiac.
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